HPV Vaccine

Obstetrics and Gynecologist in West Houston, TX

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections in the United States have dropped significantly since the HPV vaccine became available. To protect you or your adolescent from certain cancers, Elite Women’s Care Center offers the HPV vaccine. The board-certified OB/GYNs recommend that sexually active teens and adults aged 26 and younger get the HPV vaccine to lower their risk for cervical cancer, genital warts, and other HPV-related complications. Call the Houston, Texas, office to schedule an HPV vaccine appointment or book a consultation online today.

HPV Q & A

What is an HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is a preventive measure that can lower your risk for a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). The virus spreads from person to person through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. You can also develop the infection through close skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.

While HPV infections can go away on their own without causing complications, some can increase your risk for genital warts and reproductive cancers.

Elite Women’s Care Center offers the HPV vaccine for adolescent girls and adult women who are sexually active and at risk for HPV infections.

When should I get an HPV vaccine?

Ideally, adolescents should get their first dose of the HPV vaccine around 11-12 years of age. The Elite Women’s Care Center providers recommend getting the second dose within 6-12 months of the first dose to protect children from cervical cancer later in life.

Adults aged 26 and younger can also receive the HPV vaccine. However, the vaccine isn’t typically recommended for anyone older due to the likelihood that they already have a history of HPV exposure.

If you’re interested in the HPV vaccine, your physician reviews your medical history and existing health to confirm the vaccine is right for you.

Is the HPV vaccine safe?

The HPV vaccine is safe and effective at reducing your or your child’s risk for HPV-related cancers and other complications. The vaccine was tested extensively before being made available to the public.

You or your child might experience mild side effects after receiving the HPV vaccine, including:

Redness
Dizziness
Headache
Pain at the injection site

These issues typically resolve within a few hours, and the providers can recommend strategies you can use at home to address any discomfort.

If you have any concerns about the safety of the HPV vaccine for yourself or your child, you can discuss them with the physicians. They can provide resources that help you make the best decision.

Call Elite Women’s Care Center to schedule an appointment for the HPV vaccine or book a consultation online today.